EMBRACING AMELIA by Elaine Violette
Fiction, Regency Historical Romance, 193 pages
5*****
Blurb: Lady Amelia Pierce has a forbidden dream: riding in equestrian competitions. When she loses a family ring in the stable, her brother finds her foraging for it in the hay with Lucas Grey, a duke’s bastard son. Amelia’s outraged father sends her to London to salvage her reputation and find a suitable match. Despite his ignoble birth and rakish reputation, Lucas is much admired for his management of Winston Equestrian Stables. He and Amelia are fascinated by each other. But the missing emerald ring and a viscount’s greed lead to disaster and imprisonment for Lucas. Will scandal and secrets keep him from Amelia forever?
Thoughts: This is definitely not my normal genre to read, and I realize I am missing something. All the rules and social strictures lead to trouble for the heroine—and the hero—of the story.
What I liked: The characters, especially Amelia. She rails against not being able to do as she wants—ride in jumping matches, be unheard and unseen unless enticing a husband. Lucas Grey has a lot of rage built up – with good reason. The duke (Lucas’ father) is another good character. The characters carry this story with a few details thrown in so we know where and when we are.
What I didn’t like: There were a few editorial issues that jarred me but not enough to pull me away from the story. The story is actually quite good and there’s a HEA ending that satisfies.
Recommendation: If you love Regency romances, pick this one up. And if you’ve never tried one before, try this one. You won’t be disappointed.
Disclaimer: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
4/28/23
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